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Barium Swallow

(Esophagography, Esophagogram)

Procedure overview

What is a barium swallow?

A barium swallow is a radiographic (X-ray) examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, specifically the pharynx (back of mouth and throat) and the esophagus (a hollow tube of muscle extending from below the tongue to the stomach). The pharynx and esophagus are made visible on X-ray film by a liquid suspension called barium sulfate (barium). Barium highlights certain areas in the body to create a clearer picture. A barium swallow may be performed separately or as part of an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series, which evaluates the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine).

X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body tissues onto specially-treated plates (similar to camera film) and a "negative" type picture is made.

Fluoroscopy is often used during a barium swallow. Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures — similar to an X-ray "movie." A continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined, and is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. In barium X-rays, fluoroscopy allows the radiologist to see the movement of the barium through the pharynx and esophagus as a person drinks.

Why is barium used with X-rays?

Barium is a dry, white, chalky powder that is mixed with water to make a thick, milkshake-like drink. Barium is an X-ray absorber and appears white on X-ray film. When swallowed, a barium drink coats the inside walls of the pharynx and esophagus so that the swallowing motion, inside wall lining, and size and shape of these organs is visible on X-ray. This process shows differences that might not be seen on standard X-rays. Barium is used only for diagnostic studies of the GI tract.

The use of barium with X-rays contributes to the visibility of various characteristics of the pharynx and esophagus. Some abnormalities of the pharynx and/or esophagus that may be detected by a barium swallow include tumors, ulcers, hernias, diverticula (pouches), strictures (narrowing), inflammation, and swallowing difficulties.

Another related procedure that may be used to diagnose upper GI problems is esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Please see this procedure for additional information.

About the pharynx and esophagus

Click Image to Enlarge

Digestion is the process by which food and liquid are broken down into smaller parts so that the body can use them to build and nourish cells, and to provide energy. Digestion begins in the mouth, where food and liquids are taken in, and is completed in the large intestine.

One of the main functions of the pharynx is swallowing. The main function of the esophagus is the forward propulsion of foods to the stomach.

Reasons for the procedure

A barium swallow may be performed to diagnose structural or functional abnormalities of the pharynx and esophagus. These abnormalities may include, but are not limited to:

Cancers of the head, neck, pharynx, and esophagus

Tumors

Hiatal hernia. Upward movement of the stomach, either into or alongside the esophagus

Structural problems. Such as diverticula, strictures, or polyps (growths)

Esophageal varices (enlarged veins)

Muscle disorders(pharyngeal or esophageal). Such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) or spasms (pharyngeal or esophageal)

Achalasia. A condition in which the lower esophageal sphincter muscle doesn't relax and allow food to pass into the stomach

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers

There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend a barium swallow.

Risks of the procedure

You may want to ask your doctor about the amount of radiation used during the procedure and the risks related to your particular situation. It's a good idea to keep a record of your past history of radiation exposure, such as previous scans and other types of X-rays, so that you can inform your doctor. Risks associated with radiation exposure may be related to the cumulative number of X-ray examinations and/or treatments over a long period of time.

If you're pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your doctor. Radiation exposure during pregnancy may lead to birth defects.

Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications, contrast dyes, iodine, or latex should notify their doctor.

Constipation or fecal impaction may occur if the barium isn't completely eliminated from the body.

Contraindications for a barium swallow may include, but are not limited to:

Esophageal or bowel perforation

Bowel obstruction or severe constipation

Pregnancy

Severe swallowing difficulty such that aspiration (entry of substances into the lungs) of barium is likely

There may be other risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.

Before the procedure

Your doctor will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about the procedure.

You may be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the procedure. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear.

You'll be asked to not eat or drink liquids for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight.

If you're pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your doctor.

Notify your doctor if you're sensitive to or are allergic to any medications, latex, tape, and anesthetic agents (local and general).

Notify your doctor of all medications (prescribed and over the counter) and herbal supplements that you're taking. Your doctor may advise you to withhold certain medications prior to the procedure.

Notify the radiologist if you've had a recent barium X-ray or cholangiography procedure, as this may interfere with obtaining an optimal X-ray exposure of the upper GI area.

Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific preparation.

During the procedure

A barium swallow may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary, depending on your condition and your doctor's practices.

Generally, a barium swallow follows this process:

You'll be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the procedure.

If you're asked to remove clothing, you'll be given a gown to wear.

You'll be positioned on an X-ray table that can tilt you from a horizontal to an upright position. You may also be asked to change positions (for example, lying on your side, back, or stomach) at intervals during the procedure.

Standard X-rays of the heart, lung, and abdomen may be performed first.

The radiologist will ask you to take a swallow of a thickened barium drink. The barium is usually flavored, although it may not be very pleasant tasting.

As you swallow the barium, the radiologist will take single pictures, a series of X-rays, or a video (fluoroscopy) to observe the barium moving through the pharynx.

You may be asked to hold your breath at certain times during the procedure.

You will be given a thinner barium drink to swallow. X-rays and/or fluoroscopy will be used to observe the barium's passage down the esophagus. You may also be asked to swallow a barium tablet — a small, solid pill, which can help to visualize certain structural problems of the esophagus.

If an additional procedure called a small bowel follow-through has been requested, it will be performed after the barium swallow has been completed.

Once all required X-rays have been taken, you'll be assisted from the table.

After the procedure

You may resume your normal diet and activities after a barium swallow, unless your doctor advises you differently.

Barium may cause constipation or possible impaction after the procedure if it isn't completely eliminated from your body. You may be advised to drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in fiber to expel the barium from the body. You may also be given a cathartic or laxative to help expel the barium.

Since barium isn't absorbed into the body but passes through the entire intestinal tract, your bowel movements may be lighter in color until all of the barium has been excreted.

Notify your doctor to report any of the following:

Difficulty with bowel movements or inability to have a bowel movement

Pain and/or distention of the abdomen

Stools that are smaller in diameter than normal

Your doctor may give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular situation.

Online Resources

The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and wasn't designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.

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